Refers to something done for enjoyment or to pass time, often with a nuance of light distraction or comfort. Can be used in phrases like 慰みに (for fun/as a pastime).
I read books as a pastime on my days off.
He plays the guitar for amusement.
plaything; toy; object of amusement
fingering an object to kill time; amusing oneself; diversion · gambling
diversion; distraction; pastime
half in jest; partly for fun; capricious
Derived from the verb 慰む (なぐさむ, to be comforted/diverted), with the nominalizing suffix み. The kanji 慰 carries the meaning of consolation or amusement.